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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Description

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot which forms in a deep vein, usually in the thigh or calf and is usually caused by long periods of immobility or from poor circulation because of problems such as heart disease.

Our Advice

Try to avoid long periods of bed rest. If you have to stay in bed, keep your lower limbs moving on a regular basis.

Stop smoking.

Take regular exercise.

Use support stockings if you have varicose veins.

If you are taking a flight, use flight socks to improve circulation, walk around the plane whenever you can and drink plenty of water during the flight.

A low dose of aspirin also helps thin the blood but ask the pharmacist if you are taking any other medication or suffer from indigestion.

Our pharmacist can help you identify if you may be at higher risk from DVT.